Sterling Elliott was much more than an ingenious inventor. He was a visionary and risk taker who truly changed America. Above all, Elliott was a staunch advocate for the rights of others. His social conscience made him a vehicle for social reform.In an age when men universally disapproved of women riding bicycles, Elliott built a riding academy where women were encouraged and trained to ride. In 1889, he launched his unique Elliott Hickory bicycle, created specifically for women, with features designed to accommodate their long skirts.
In an age when black athletes were prohibited from competing equally with whites, Elliott campaigned strongly against racial discrimination. He arranged for Marshall Taylor, a black cycling competitor, to race in Massachusetts against the best racers in the country, ultimately paving the way for Marshall to pursue a racing career and win a national championship.
In an age when roads were ill-maintained and without funding, Elliott played a key role in the creation of state and federal support and standardization for a highway system. There was also a lighter side to Elliott, which is evident from the advertisements for his bicycle inventions.
In an age when advertising was technical and rather dull, Elliott's ads were unique, effective . . . and the first to use humor!
